Former minister of State Brendan Griffin will not be obliged to undertake a “cooling off” period before undertaking any lobbying as part of a new private sector role.
Mr Griffin, who was a Fine Gael TD, served as a minister of State between 2017 and 2020.
As he left the position more than a year ago, post-employment obligations on lobbying activity that last for one year after leaving office will not apply to him, his new employer said.
Mr Griffin, who was a TD for Kerry and Kerry South for a total of 13 years, will take up a new role as a senior public affairs adviser with Hanover Communications. He decided not to run again in last November’s general election.
Hanover Communications managing director Lorna Jennings said Mr Griffin’s experience and “deep understanding of public affairs” would be invaluable as the firm expands its strategic offering.
He will focus on areas including transport, tourism and sport, the firm said. Former tánaiste Mary Harney is already a member of the firm’s senior advisory team in Dublin.
A spokesman for the firm said the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015 provides for a cooling-off period for outgoing ministers, ministers of State, special advisers and prescribed public servants – termed “relevant DPOs” (Designated Public Officials).
“As an outgoing TD at the general election, Brendan Griffin is a registrable DPO not covered by this provision. We are delighted to have Brendan’s insight on the team.”
He said Mr Griffin’s role may involve advising clients on policy-related matters and that “any direct advocacy engagement towards DPOs will be conducted in full compliance with the Regulation of Lobbying Act”.
Asked about Mr Griffin’s new role, Labour finance spokesman Ged Nash said “people are entitled to make a living” so long as matters are conducted in accordance with the relevant legislation.
However, he said there was a need to be “watchful” about trends in the lobbying industry and to ensure there was a clear separation between those who lobby and those in public life.
“Once people make lobbying returns and comply with the legislation that’s there ... that should satisfy the situation,” he said.
People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy said former TDs should not have unfettered access to the Leinster House campus. He called for a “proper cool-off period” between people acting as TDs and becoming lobbyists.
“Once people become lobbyists, then effectively they should no longer be treated as former public representatives while they are in that role, the special, privileged access they get should be cut off. Otherwise it has a deeply corrosive effect.”
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